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Austin to Boston - Walking for a Cure

March 21, 2008, 11:21AM MT

By Jennifer S Hayes

A man and his two dogs begin a 2,400 mile journey to raise funds and awareness for cancer in pets.

A man and his two dogs begin a 2,400 mile journey to raise funds and awareness for cancer in pets.

By Jennifer Hayes, Best Friends Network

Losing a friend is never easy; however, the crossing of his Great Pyrenees Malcolm had a profound effect on Luke Robinson. In 2004, his beloved dog was diagnosed with osteosarcoma cancer, and despite the best of care and an almost two-year fight; Malcolm succumbed to the disease in 2006. During the course of the illness, Robinson had made three promises to Malcolm. One was a private vow between friends, not to be made public. He fulfilled his pledge to quit smoking on October 31, 2006, a day of significance as it was Malcolm’s birthday. His last promise was to devote the next phase of his life to help rid the world of this dreaded disease. At the time, he did not realize where this promise would lead.
(Hudson arrives in the car with the gear while Luke Robinson gives him a pet)

Robinson said “It took a bit of time to process the loss and get focus,” but he knew his life was about to change in a major way. He initially spent time educating himself about canine cancers until the concept of 2 Dogs 2,000 miles began to form. His plan was to journey from Austin, Texas to Boston, Massachusetts along with his two dogs, Murphy and Hudson.

(Mark Vogel, who flew in from Massachusetts, poses with Murphy.)

The purpose of his walk is to raise funds for a study of cancer in canines by the Animal Cancer Foundation (ACF). Deeply affected by the loss of Malcolm he states, “I don’t want anyone to go though this again.” Currently there is no scientific data that can tell what types of cancers are predominant in particular breeds or that occur regionally. “We lack the informational infrastructure to be able to answer these questions,” notes Robinson. Human records already exist and he believes that “since dogs and cats are great models for understanding cancer in humans, with this data, we should start being able to look at trends.” Robinson also hopes that the need for laboratory animals will decrease, if data is available from animals already afflicted with cancer.

Money generated from his walk will go toward a study to gather that essential information and put a system in place. Robinson said, “Our goal is to do this nationwide across the board study and look into as many types of cancer as possible and to make it as comprehensive as possible.” This first study is directed toward dogs; however, he is hopeful this will expand to cats as well. While there is no overall goal set yet, Robinson’s personal objective is $1 million.

(Hudson poses underneath Luke Robinson.)

The trip is a very personal and spiritual journey for him, yet he also stated, “I want to make this as much of a community effort as possible.” As his plan developed, other individuals who were heartbroken from their own connection with a pet diagnosed with cancer came forward to offer their support and assistance. The 2 Dogs 2,000 Miles website has a blog and he anticipates being available to chat weekly during the walk.

Their preparation
Surprisingly, Robinson is far from being an “adventure junkie.” However, he has learned to appreciate time spent outdoors because of his dogs. To prepare themselves for the trip, he and the boys began a training program. They would walk about 2-4 miles a day, though he was always careful to never overtax the dogs, particularly because Murphy is 6 ½ years old. “We’re going to experience all sorts of situations on the road, so we’ve been trying to train in as many types of situations as I can foresee.” He also tried protective booties on the dogs, though getting them on and keeping them on has proven to be a time consuming and difficult process. Personally he began sleeping on the floor to acclimate himself to a life on the road. He had also been meditating both in the morning and evening to reach a mental state of preparedness for the long journey.

(Representatives from Great Pyrenees Rescue Society and Northeast Pyrenees Rescue were on hand to support them on their first day.)

Care for the dogs is paramount on this adventure. He plans to bring them to veterinarians to be weighed and examined monthly. Robinson has done the calculations necessary to determine the calories the boys need daily, along with vitamins and supplements, to equal their energy expenditures. While he has no personal plans to treat himself at the walk’s completion, both Murphy and Hudson are scheduled for time at a doggy spa, to receive hydrotherapy and deep tissue massage.

Serious research was done to determine possible dangers they may encounter, as well as how to handle inclement weather. His greatest concern is lightening. “Risk aversion is my policy,” states Robinson when he talks about the metal pole/golf club makeshift lightening rod he is bringing, along with a foam cushion, to protect themselves. If the weather is too extreme, they will not walk. Robinson realizes “there is no prize for getting there early” and is unwilling to take any unnecessary risks. He will also have a database of all possible poisonous foliage he and the boys may encounter throughout their walk. Another important component packed is a weather radio set on alarm mode, plus he will text volunteers three times daily for assurance that they are okay.

The plan is to carry approximately six days worth of food and supplies with him and volunteers will ship additional provisions to drop points along the way. To accommodate the necessities, Robinson had to keep the weight of any personal items to a minimum. However, he has chosen to carry three special Malcolm mementos with him on the journey; the St. Francis medallion given to Malcolm by Robinson’s mother, one of his toe nails, and a piece of memorial jewelry containing some of his ashes. Murphy has a pack to carry and Robinson hopes he will be able to transport a couple gallons of water. Hudson will have it easy and will not be asked to haul any provisions until his two-year birthday in August.
(Luke will wear his three Malcolm mementos around his neck for the journey.)

The send-off

His journey has struck a chord with people nationwide. Word has spread online about his undertaking on behalf of Malcolm and all other animals who have been diagnosed with cancer. In response, people are coming forward to help and support the trio on their journey.

(Young Darrell Ponder with his dog Preston traveled from Houston for the event)

Malcolm, Murphy and Hudson are all Great Pyrenees. In fact, Murphy was even a rescue, so it would only make sense that animal welfare organizations, particularly Great Pyrenees breed rescues would take notice of this journey. Both people and canines from
Great Pyrenees Rescue Society made the trip from Houston to Austin to see them off. However, the award for the person traveling the furthest would have to be Mark Vogel, of Northeast Pyrenees Rescue, who flew in from Massachusetts to be a part of the first day. Vogel’s dog was diagnosed with bone cancer in January. At 12 years old, Marshmellow has been an ambassador for the Great Pyrenees breed by working with Alzheimer patients as a Delta Society dog and by being featured in a Sea Dogs exhibition at the Cape Cod Maritime Museum. She is currently undergoing treatment and her name is prominently listed on Robinson’s shirt for the first leg of the walk.

(Brian and Kristin Gray with the newest member of their family, Abita)

Local attendees who had recently lost their dogs to cancer were pleased to be there to support them on their endeavor. Brendon Hussey was at the send-off to represent his wife Yukie, who has been unable to attend. The crossing of their shepherd Musashi is still fresh, after a 4 ½ month fight against hemangiosarcoma, a bleeding cancer. The couple found a connection with others through the Canine Cancer Yahoo Group, where they could share their pain with others who had endured similar circumstances. Brian and Kristin Gray, along with Abita, were also at there after having lost their dog Maggie only two months ago, after five rounds of chemotherapy. Empty after their loss, they too joined the Yahoo group and learned of Robinson’s walk and came to support him.

After a lovely send-off this past Sunday, Robinson, Murphy, and Hudson are now all on their way to Boston. While the scientific side of him would have liked to have planned the entire trip, he realizes that situations will come up which leave him no choice but to be flexible. What he does know is that the extra time he spent training with the dogs and brought them all closer together and they find comfort and security with one another, just like a pack. He estimates they will average about 10 miles a day and anticipates arrival in Boston by Christmas.

In spite of all the research and precautions taken, Robinson realizes he will rely on people’s assistance throughout the journey and says, “I just have to have faith that we’ll be fine and make the journey successfully.”

(Group shot)

How to help:

There are many ways for you to help support this effort.

Donate:
• You can make a donation to the 2 Dogs 2,000 Miles Foundation. All online gifts will be given to the Animal Cancer Foundation. For a $25 contribution, you can add the name of your pet affected by cancer to Robinson’s memorial apparel. Names will be added to his clothing throughout his trip.
• You can make a donation directly to the Animal Cancer Foundation.
• Another choice is to support Luke and the dogs as they travel. Needed supplies can be purchased for them via MyRegistry.com.
• Purchase Puppy Up apparel and spread the word about 2 Dogs 2,000 miles, while also financially supporting them.

Participate:
• If you are along the route, can provide meals and/or lodging for them, or would like to join them on their walk for a while, please e-mail kathy@2dogs2000miles.org.
• Robinson and the boys welcome opportunities stop along the way to participate in animal and cancer related events. Plans are currently being made for celebrations in both Memphis and Boston and more are expected and appreciated.
• If you would like to become a virtual volunteer, sign up and post on the 2 Dogs 2,000 Miles Forum.
• Follow their progress via the interactive map.

For more information:
• 2 Dogs 2,000 Miles website
• 2 Dogs 2,000 Miles blog
• 2 Dogs 2,000 Miles forum (ask “The Big Dog” questions during his live chats)
• See Luke’s video memorial to Malcolm
• My Fox Austin: Man Walking 2000 Miles to Fight Animal Cancer

• Those who are mourning the loss of their pet to cancer may wish to visit the Prayers, Healing and Support community.

Photo credit: photos by Jennifer Hayes

Comments

Posted March 21, 2008, 4:45 by pattycatty

Looking forward to watching their progress. Stay safe.

Posted March 25, 2008, 10:35AM by panchoandleftys

Hi Luke, Just met ya'al last night at Pancho and Lefty's in Hare, Tx. What beautiful boys you have, best of luck to you and have a safe trip. Hope you enjoyed the cold beers and great food at Pancho and Lefty's and hope you slept well in their beer garden. Best of luck to ya'al !!!

Posted March 29, 2008, 12:41 by michelle

Luke is one incredible man who is showing what one person with love and courage can do to change the world for the precious animals.

General route includes:

1. Tyler, TX
2. Texarkana, AR
3. Memphis, TN
4. Louisville, KY
5. Cincinatti, OH
6. Columbus, OH
7. Pittsburgh, PA
8. Harrisburg, PA
9. Newark, NJ
10. NYC, NY
11. Hartford, CT
12. Providence, RI
13. Boston

Posted May 27, 2008, 12:12AM by kathy_g

June 7th--
Big party planned for crossing into Texarkana!!

More details to come...

Posted June 06, 2008, 2:45 by jhayes

If anyone is able to attend, please let us know how it goes.

Posted June 04, 2008, 12:17AM by allypurp

kathy,

Earlier, I recieved an email that the Big Dog, etc would be getting to Texarkana on June 10th. Today, I got an email stating that they will arrive on June 7th. Do you know which is correct?

Ally

Posted June 05, 2008, 5:58 by cattees

Hey everyone,

It's been confirmed that Luke and the boys will be arriving at 10:00 a.m. on June 7 at Kidtopia Park in Texarkana. From there everyone is encouraged to walk with Luke and the boys across the border into Arkansas.

For more info, please contact Kathy at kathy@2dogs2000miles.org

Puppy Up!

Posted March 24, 2008, 9:29 by kathy_g

I'm SO sorry you lost your sweet Austin to cancer.
It seems many people who have been touched by this disease are relating to this mission on a very personal level. You're in my thoughts and prayers.
Luke and the boys have yet another precious Angel walking along with them in Spirit.

Posted March 24, 2008, 5:3 by ccastello

It was amazing to open the Best Friends home page today and see this article.

On Saturday (22nd) we just lost our beloved 11.5 year old Golden Retriever to cancer. He had been with my husband since he was 8 weeks old. He (the dog) pretty much "raised" my step son who is now 13.

Our beloved dog's name was Austin. Just like this article: "Austin to Boston".

We will donate in name of our Austin.

Posted March 26, 2008, 5:39 by cattees

Sign up for the 2 Dogs Daily Newsletter-don't miss it!

Starting today, there will be a daily newsletter highlighting those who have told us that they have met Luke and the boys along this journey and providing their location for those who wish to help out with the Bottle Brigade program.

http://www.2dogs2000miles.org

Please go to the website, look around and then sign up!

Posted March 21, 2008, 2:57 by kathy_g

Wonderful article, Jennifer-thank you.
Sounds like a great time was had by all.
I know this journey will be a successful one on all levels for the guys, and I wish them the best of everything.

Posted March 22, 2008, 9:32AM by kathy_g

Join The Bottle Brigade!

At the moment Luke and the boys are in the area of Taylor TX and moving toward San Gabriel TX.

Please see the website with details on the right hand side for how you can help:
www.2dogs2000miles.org